Tree Care
1. Make a fresh cut 1/2 in. to 1 in. from base of trunk before putting in stand. This will get rid of the section sealed off by sap and increase the tree’s water consumption. Keeping your tree fresh and minimizing needle loss.
2. Cut perpendicular to the tree trunk. Do not cut at an angle or into a V-shape, that will reduce the amount of water it takes up and make the tree more difficult to stabilize. Do not whittle the sides of trunk down to fit stand, the outer layers of wood are the most efficient in taking up water and should not be removed.
3. Place tree in water as soon as possible. Most species can go 6-8 hours after cutting the trunk and still take up water. If needed, trees can be temporarily stored for several days in a cool location and with the freshly cut trunk placed in a bucket of water.
4. Use a reservoir-type stand with sufficient water holding capability for tree. Generally, stands should provided 1 quart water per inch of tree trunk diameter.
5. Refill and check stand daily to make sure level of water does not go below the base of tree. An average tree may consume between a quart and a gallon of water per day. Do not add anything to the water, it may clog pores reducing water uptake.
6. Keep trees away from heat source (fireplaces, heaters, heat vents, direct sunlight), as they will increase the drying process.
7. Lights that produce low heat, such as miniatures, will reduce drying. Inspect light sets for worn places and replace before placing them on tree.
8. Always turn off lights when leaving the house or going to bed.
9. Proper care is the most effective way of maintaining tree's moisture.